Turning point for Disability Services

Turning point for Disability Services

Disability Services in Tasmania is set for its biggest shake-up since it was de-institutionalised almost a decade ago.

A State Government commissioned review has so far identified significant problems in the allocation of funding, with no emphasis on measuring how clients benefit.

North-west residents in particular have less support and access to disability services than those in other regions.

Liz Forsyth, who heads the review for KPMG, has indicated a single point of contact for people with disabilities is one of the likely outcomes, as well as a new funding model.

“It’s about improving service access for people with disabilities and their families, ensuring that we can bring together the services around the person rather than the person having to fit into the service system,” she said.

“It’s looking at getting earlier intervention so families can be supported to maintain their family member and it’s about improving geographic equity in the system as it exists today.”

KPMG’s final report should be handed to the State Government by the end of the month.